British train operating company Arriva Trains Wales has completed the installation of Driver Advisory Systems (DAS) on its fleet of 125 trains, with the exception of two driver van trailers (DVT).
The DAS system is expected to help the drivers to reduce fuel consumption and minimise the trains' environmental impact.
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The solution provides real-time advice to drivers during journeys as to when lower speeds or prolonged periods of coasting could be exercised to reduce fuel usage.
Arriva Trains Wales Driver Performance Manager Gareth Morgan said: “We started fitting our trains with the Driver Advisory System in July 2015, and began to see a dramatic reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions after just a couple of months.
“The fantastic results are due to the dynamic way that the system operates and the commitment that our drivers have demonstrated for utilising the new technology.”
Arriva also noted that the company has saved roughly 750,000l of fuel since the introduction of DAS.
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By GlobalDataMorgan added: “It provides drivers with technical data including their current location, estimated times of arrival and station timing information so they are much better informed.
“This means there is less likelihood of stopping unexpectedly at red signals or pulling abruptly into stations, resulting in a smoother ride for our passengers.”
In addition to fitting the DAS solution on-board the vehicles, Arriva Trains Wales has also begun rainwater harvesting and smart metering initiatives.
The rainwater harvesting systems were installed at Arriva’s Cardiff, Newport and Machynlleth depots, and have reportedly reduced the company's water use by 30,000m³.
Smart metering technology has also been fitted in all 247 stations managed by the rail operator in order to consistently monitor ongoing electricity and gas usage, as well as detect possible energy conservation opportunities.
Image: DAS delivers benefits for drivers. Photo: courtesy of Arriva Trains Wales.
